'There's a World Cup happening?' Are Americans excited about the tournament?

This article explores the lukewarm reception of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States compared to the popularity of domestic sports like basketball. It notes that while the tournament is a major global event, it faces stiff competition for American attention.
Why it matters
The success of the World Cup in the US is a key indicator of the growth of soccer culture in a market dominated by other major professional sports.
Image source, AFP via Getty Images Image caption, Will Americans catch World Cup fever?
The article provides a balanced cultural observation, citing polls and comparing interest levels without taking a side.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in